Having grown up in Minot and after spending the majority of my adult life here, I have taken my bikes to Val’s Cyclery many times over the years for repairs. I knew that they sold bikes and repaired them, but didn’t know about their other services until recently.
The first of these services and one that everyone can utilize in some way is their sharpening service. Did you know that you should have your kitchen knives sharpened two times per year? I had no idea of this fact before meeting with Rory Schell, second generation owner of Val’s Cyclery in downtown Minot. Schell suggests that people bring their knives in once in the spring to have them ready for grilling season and again in the fall in preparation for the holidays.
From kitchen knives to chainsaw blades and quilting shears to ice auger blades, they can sharpen just about anything that is starting to get a little dull. Ice auger blades are something that previously has been an item that has been said to be unsharpenable, but Schell has a process that he has perfected and has gained the attention of people around the state and the country, who send him their blades to be sharpened, when everyone else said it was impossible.
It is incredibly convenient to bring items in to be sharpened. You don’t even need to schedule an appointment. Just bring the items in and then they will contact you when ready for pickup. It is so easy!
In addition to their sharpening services, they also offer bicycle repairs. From yearly tune ups to major repairs, their skilled service technicians can get your bike ready for your adventures. Val’s can tune and repair any brand of bike. I can attest to their attention to detail and customer service from the bike servicing they have done for my family’s bikes over the years.
If you are in the market for a new bike, exercise equipment or other accessories, Val’s offers bicycles for all ages, e-bikes, rowers, treadmills, recumbents, headphones, bike helmets, and so much more. Their knowledgeable staff can help you find exactly what you are looking for to get you moving. You will truly be amazed at all they have to offer.
Val’s Cyclery is located on the corner of Central Avenue and 3rd Street in downtown Minot. With its gradated green and yellow exterior, you will not miss it, but even more interesting than the colorful paint color is the history behind the business. Val Schell opened Val’s Cyclery 64 years ago and trained his sons in the business. In 1982, he became partners in the business with his sons and eventually they bought Val out. In 2012, Rory Schell bought out his brother, and has since been training his own sons to someday take over the business. A three generation family business whose focus is on customer service and satisfaction. Schell said one of his favorite things is that he has had customers for decades. From the time their parents bring them in for their first bike and then as adults coming in for sharpening services, bike repairs, upgrades, etc, Schell has enjoyed getting to know these lifelong customers.
If you are looking for a way to get outdoors, stay active, and get to know other people, Wednesday and Thursday bike rides are the perfect option. Every Wednesday night, a group meets in the front of the store and they go for a ride. It can be up to 50 people and they do anywhere from 10 mile to 25 mile rides. You can be a beginner or advanced and there are people who can help you perfect your skills.
It is fun for the whole family. Thursdays, they often meet at the Bison Plant Trail for a ride and will even go for rides in the winter months. It is an excellent opportunity to get to know others in the community and have fun. Sometimes they even offer food!
You can find Val’s Cyclery on Facebook at ValsCyclery and they are also in the process of finishing up their website: www.valscyclery.com. Stop in at 222 E. Central Ave. or call 701-839-4817. You will be greeted with a smile, treated to excellent customer service, and will feel good knowing that your purchase from this local business was greatly appreciated. Don’t forget, it’s time to get those knives sharpened and your bike in for its yearly tune up!
